Misty Copeland closed a remarkable chapter in her legendary ballet career as she delivered her final performance with the American Ballet Theatre at the Fall Gala in New York City. Fans, celebrities and cultural icons gathered at David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center to celebrate the first African American woman ever promoted to principal dancer at ABT.
Oprah Winfrey walked proudly beside Copeland on the red carpet, symbolizing the wide influence and cultural legacy of the dancer who joined the company in 2000 at only 18 years old. The evening reflected both joy and nostalgia. Copeland, now 43, stepped into the spotlight one last time for the company that helped her make history in 2015 when she shattered one of ballet’s greatest barriers.
A Historic Night For Ballet and Representation
The ABT Fall Gala was more than a farewell. It was a tribute to resilience, representation and artistry that changed the global perception of ballet. The audience included high-profile supporters such as Marisa Tomei, Jim Parsons, Taye Diggs, Zac Posen, Danielle Brooks, Iman and Andrew Rannells. Their presence demonstrated how Copeland’s impact reached far beyond dance.
The gala featured performances that highlighted Copeland’s most defining roles. Each moment felt emotional but full of joy as colleagues honored the dancer who helped open doors for aspiring ballerinas of color. Her contributions extended from the stage to advocacy for youth access to arts and for body diversity in dance. Short and heartfelt speeches throughout the night recognized her enduring influence.
She has published books, worked with iconic brands and engaged in philanthropy that prioritizes inclusivity in the arts. Even as she prepares for the next phase of her career, her advocacy continues. For many attendees, the event represented a milestone in the diversification of ballet at the world’s highest level.
Celebrities Align In Celebration
Stars from Hollywood, fashion and Broadway cheered Copeland on. Each attendee brought a unique connection to the event and the arts community.
One section of the night emphasized how Copeland has become a cultural symbol whose career transcends performance:
- She inspired new generations of young dancers across the globe.
- She broke one of ballet’s most persistent racial barriers.
- She proved that elite ballet can and should represent everyone.
- She maintained global visibility through film, books and advocacy programs.
These points resonated throughout the evening. Fashion designers praised her for modernizing ballet’s image, while actors credited her for pushing artistic evolution. Oprah Winfrey’s presence underscored how Copeland has shaped cultural storytelling and empowerment. Red carpet interviews overflowed with gratitude and admiration.
The evening concluded with a standing ovation that extended long after the final bow. The farewell was not an end to artistry. It was a signal of new beginnings.
Star Presence and Key Red Carpet Moments
Who Attended and Why It Mattered
The table below highlights notable attendees and their connection to the ballet world or Copeland herself:
Key Attendees At The 2025 ABT Fall Gala
| Name | Profession | Known Connection to Misty Copeland or Ballet |
|---|---|---|
| Oprah Winfrey | Media icon and philanthropist | Longtime supporter of Copeland’s advocacy for diverse representation |
| Marisa Tomei | Actress | Public supporter of performing arts in NYC |
| Jim Parsons | Actor | Broadway experience and arts supporter |
| Taye Diggs | Actor and singer | Strong background in musical performance and dance |
| Zac Posen | Fashion designer | Designed costumes worn by Copeland in past major events |
| Danielle Brooks | Actress | Known for empowerment and body-positivity advocacy |
| Iman | Fashion and cultural icon | Global advocate for diversity in beauty and fashion |
| Andrew Rannells | Broadway star | Advocate for live theater and artistic community |
The Legacy Misty Copeland Leaves Behind
Her journey from late-beginner ballet student to one of the most influential dancers of this century remains one of the most compelling success stories in the performing arts.
She made ballet feel accessible. She rewrote the narrative that dancers must fit a single body type. She gave young artists permission to dream beyond the mold.
Copeland’s next chapter will still champion these values. She continues work with her foundation promoting arts education and leadership opportunities for underserved youth. She is also expected to expand projects in film, mentorship programs and creative production.
As ABT evolves, her imprint on the company’s future will stay visible in every dancer who feels more welcome on that stage because of her. The Fall Gala celebrated this evolution with stunning visuals, heartfelt speeches and pure gratitude.
What This Means For The Future of ABT
Two important themes emerged from the audience and backstage conversations:
- Greater commitment to diversity
ABT leaders are expected to continue investing in equitable talent pipelines, ensuring more dancers from underrepresented backgrounds can advance in the company. - Expanded cultural partnerships
By involving allies from film, fashion and media, ABT aims to broaden its audience reach. Events like the Fall Gala highlight ballet as both elite craft and a core piece of modern culture.
With Copeland transitioning from principal performer to global arts advocate, her influence may actually become even more widespread.
Trending FAQ
Why was this performance significant for Misty Copeland?
It marked her final show with ABT, closing 25 years with the company and celebrating her historic promotion as the first African American principal ballerina in 2015.
Where did the Fall Gala take place?
It was held at David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center in New York City, a major stage for performing arts.
Who attended the event?
Celebrities including Oprah Winfrey, Marisa Tomei, Iman, Zac Posen, Danielle Brooks, Jim Parsons, Taye Diggs and Andrew Rannells joined the celebration.
Will Misty Copeland retire from performing completely?
Not immediately. While stepping away from ABT’s company roster, she plans to remain creatively active through advocacy, production and performance projects.
What does this mean for young dancers today?
Her legacy empowers dancers of diverse backgrounds to pursue classical ballet confidently, knowing that leadership roles are possible.
Misty Copeland’s monumental farewell reflects a turning point not only for her career but for the ballet world. It highlights a cultural shift toward inclusion, visibility and empowerment. The ABT Fall Gala recognized her achievements with warmth, pride and theater-filling applause. Ballet will continue to evolve, but the mark she leaves is permanent and powerful.
